2020 Nissan Kicks Engine Is Stalling

Common Causes of Engine Stalling in Your 2020 Nissan Kicks and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
30% chance it's the
Fuel System
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15% chance it's the
Air Intake System
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55% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2020 Nissan Kicks engine is stalling are the fuel system, the air intake system, or the ignition system.
  • Fuel System: A clogged fuel filter or failing fuel pump can restrict fuel flow, resulting in poor engine performance and starting issues.
  • Air Intake System: A dirty or damaged air filter or a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can restrict airflow, leading to reduced engine performance and efficiency.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2020 Nissan Kicks engine is stalling?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

If the MAF sensor sends an erroneous signal, a few things happen. The engine's computer will trigger the check engine light, and the on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes will reflect the airflow discrepancy noted by the MAF sensor. Depending on the reported volume of air, the engine may try to compensate for these conditions, causing the engine to burn excessive amounts of fuel and emit black smoke from the exhaust. In this case, the OBD trouble codes would also reference faults recognized by the exhaust oxygen sensors. The engine may also have issues with idling roughly, failing to start, stalling, hesitation, power loss, misfires, and fuel consumption.

»MORE: Signs of a failing mass airflow sensor

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take when a 2020 Nissan Kicks engine is stalling?

When faced with a stalling engine in your 2020 Nissan Kicks, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to identify the root cause effectively. Start by checking for error codes using an OBD-II scanner, as these codes can reveal specific issues within the vehicle's computer system. Next, inspect the fuel system, ensuring that the fuel pump, filter, and injectors are functioning correctly and that clean fuel is reaching the engine. Following this, examine the ignition system components, including spark plugs and ignition coils, since faulty parts here can lead to stalling. Additionally, evaluate the air intake system for any obstructions or leaks that could disrupt the air-fuel mixture necessary for optimal engine performance. Don't overlook the importance of checking various sensors, such as the mass airflow and throttle position sensors, as malfunctions in these areas can also contribute to stalling. Finally, verify the health of your battery, as a weak battery can lead to electrical issues that may cause the engine to stall. By methodically following these steps, you can effectively diagnose and address the stalling issue in your Nissan Kicks.

What are the common problems that could cause the engine to stall in a 2020 Nissan Kicks?

When diagnosing engine stalling in a 2020 Nissan Kicks, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at fault. One significant area to investigate is the fuel system; a clogged fuel filter or a malfunctioning fuel pump can disrupt the flow of fuel, leading to stalling. Additionally, the electrical system plays a crucial role; components like the ignition coil or various sensors can fail, causing the engine to lose power unexpectedly. Airflow issues are another critical factor; blockages in the air intake or a dirty air filter can prevent the engine from receiving adequate air, resulting in stalling. Furthermore, the condition of the spark plugs should not be overlooked, as worn or faulty plugs can lead to misfires. Lastly, engine overheating, often due to a failing cooling system, can also trigger stalling. By understanding these potential issues, DIYers can perform regular maintenance and timely repairs, significantly reducing the risk of engine stalling in their Nissan Kicks.

How urgent is it to address the engine stalling issue in a 2020 Nissan Kicks?

Addressing the engine stalling issue in a 2020 Nissan Kicks is of utmost urgency due to the serious safety risks it poses. Stalling can occur unexpectedly while driving, leading to a loss of vehicle control, which can result in accidents or injuries. Moreover, neglecting this problem can exacerbate the situation, potentially causing further damage to the engine or other critical components, ultimately leading to costly repairs. Therefore, it is crucial for DIY enthusiasts to recognize the signs of engine stalling and take immediate action, whether that means troubleshooting the issue themselves or seeking professional help from a certified mechanic or Nissan dealership. Prompt attention not only ensures the safety and reliability of the vehicle but also helps avoid more significant and expensive repairs down the line.

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